The Interview —

Janice Kaplan, Author of The Gratitude Diaries and Former Editor-in-Chief and Network TV Producer

A pair of designer leather pants seemed very chic when I tried them in a store on Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, but once I got home, I never had the courage to wear them.

I love writing about gratitude because readers quickly understand that being grateful can make you happier. I’m thrilled when people tell me how gratitude has improved their relationships at home and work. I am (truly) grateful to be able to share the message.

I’d tell my 18 year old self that much of life occurs by serendipity, and you have to be willing (and brave enough) to pounce on opportunities. Keep planning but always be open to opportunities. 

My latest culinary discovery is Eat Well hummus, which comes in flavors like wasabi edamame and red lentil chipotle. It’s healthy and tasty and is slowly moving from snack to main course for me.

Sometimes basics are the best. I have Neutrogena makeup remover towelettes tucked away everywhere. I use them at home because they remove eye makeup more gently than anything else I know. And when I’m traveling, they solve the problem of the dubious soap you sometimes find in hotel rooms. 

Motto: It’s not happiness that makes you grateful, it’s gratitude that makes you happy.  

At 9 am each day, I’m in front of my laptop, probably in sweats. I’m most inspired to write in the early morning, so showering and getting dressed can wait.

On Sunday, you’ll find me in running shorts. If I put them on first thing in the morning, there’s more of a chance I’ll actually go out and get in my run.  

I ordered takeout sushi and bought a bottle of saki to go with it. I could eat that every night. 

It will never go out of style to let people know you appreciate them. A very sincere thank-you can make you feel better and change someone’s day.